Independent Power Conversion Units for Multi-Core Processor Voltage Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multi-core processors consume more power than single-core processors, leading to reduced battery operating time and increased heat generation, as existing power management techniques often apply the same voltage to all cores, resulting in leakage currents and inefficient power usage.
Innovation Solution
A power control apparatus with independent power conversion units for each core, receiving voltage identification signals to adjust supply voltages based on usage amounts, allowing each core to operate at optimal voltage and frequency, thereby reducing power consumption and leakage currents.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple single-core processors are used to improve processing capability, then processing capability is improved, but system size and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple processing cores into a single processor package, allowing multiple cores to share common system components such as cache memory, power supply circuits, and control logic. This merging approach achieves high processing capability while reducing overall system size and manufacturing cost compared to using separate single-core processors.
2Productivity
If multiple single-core processors are used to improve processing capability, then processing capability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple processing cores into a single processor package, allowing multiple cores to share common system components such as cache memory, power supply circuits, and control logic. This merging approach achieves high processing capability while reducing overall system size and manufacturing cost compared to using separate single-core processors.
3Device complexity
If the same supply voltage is applied to all cores, then power management is simplified, but leakage currents increase and power efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power supply system by providing independent power conversion units for each core. Each power conversion unit can independently adjust the supply voltage to its respective core based on the core's operating mode and workload, thereby reducing leakage currents and improving power efficiency without significantly increasing power management complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different supply voltages to different cores based on their individual operating conditions. Each core receives a customized voltage level matched to its specific workload and operating mode, optimizing power efficiency locally at each core rather than applying a uniform voltage to all cores.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enables efficient power distribution to each core, minimizing power waste, optimizing processor performance, and extending battery life while reducing heat generation, allowing for more compact and efficient portable devices.
Implementation Method 1
The first power conversion unit may include a DC/DC converter connected to the first core and configured to apply a DC supply power to the first core.
Data Source
AI summary
Power may be controlled for a multi-core processor that includes a processor having a first core and a second core. A first power conversion unit independently supplies a supply voltage to the first core, and a second power conversion unit independently supplies a supply voltage to the second core. The first core can be configured to supply a voltage identification signal for the first power conversion unit, and the second core can be configured to supply a voltage identification signal for the second power conversion unit that is different from the voltage identification signal for the first core.